Tomato and Basil Saladperfectly seasoned to serve
Ripe tomatoes cut into wedges are seasoned with salt, olive oil, and basil just before serving to preserve juiciness, aroma, and texture.
A simple tomato salad relies on the ripeness of the fruit and the timing of seasoning. Evenly cut wedges expose enough pulp to create a natural sauce with olive oil, while basil is added last to maintain its fragrance and color. A brief resting period allows the flavors to meld without making the tomatoes soggy.
Ingredients
Salad
Finishing
Seasoning
Preparation
Prepare the tomatoes
Remove only the hard parts of the stem and cut the tomatoes into similarly sized wedges.
7 minutesSeason at the right moment
Gently mix tomatoes, salt, pepper, and olive oil, covering all cut surfaces.
3 minutesRest briefly
Wait 8 minutes for the juices to blend with the olive oil without softening the fruit too much.
8 minutesFinish with basil
Add the basil leaves, mix once, and serve immediately.
2 minutes
Substitutions
Other ripe varieties work well, but very watery tomatoes require less resting; dried basil does not provide the same texture.
Storage
Preferably prepare close to serving time; if necessary, cover and refrigerate for a short period.
Approximate shelf life: Up to 12 hours under refrigeration.
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary by brand, substitution and actual yield.
